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5/14/2022 7:42:39 PM

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Section 8: Handguns
Subject: Webley Mk IV Msg# 1159419

From:

Mark Freburg Forum Manager

Joined 4/3/2000

To:

Robert Bauersmith (Read)

Joined 6/11/2007

European cops did tend to carry pistols more as a sign of authority more than as a tool to stop bad guys--the same was true of European military officers. Some armies took it a step further. During WWI, British officers often carried only a staff--no firearm at all. When police departments were first formed in the Eastern US in the 1890s, the first handguns issued were very light caliber as well. It wasn't until the later 20th Century that law enforcement started carrying guns that had enough power to stop criminals. Prior to that, the presence of a police sidearm was often enough to convince a criminal to cease and desist his bad behavior. It wasn't always because bad guys didn't use guns, although that was sometimes the case, but the idea of engaging the police in a gunfight was apparently considered a risky decision. And it is true that it took the Europeans decades longer than Americans to start using more powerful firearms. When they did, they took it further than we did. For example, European often carry submachineguns, which would raise a hue and cry among the populace if American police did that here.

For reference, the above message is a reply to a message where:
I have a European police 32ACP with the holster and spare mag in the pouch! Always heard they were a sign of authority, not meant to stop bad guys because bad guys over there didn't use guns???

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